Filling a need

Published Saturday March 2, 2013 at 6:00 am

Improving access to public health, particularly for poor children, should be a priority in Massachusetts. Yesterday, the Legislature heard testimony on a bill that would do exactly that by permitting dental hygienists to fill cavities.

The legislation, co-sponsored by state Sen. Harriette Chandler, D-Worcester, would expand upon a 2010 law that allowed hygienists to provide cleanings and checkups to children in schools and homeless shelters. This latest proposal would permit hygienists who have the necessary training and experience to do routine filling work.

Oral health is very important, yet many people lack dental insurance, leaving them to postpone or forgo care.

Permitting hygienists to do routine fillings would meet an important need at less cost. More complicated cases would continue to be handled by a dentist.

This small adjustment to dental rules would help many children and prevent more serious dental problems and costs. We urge the Legislature to approve it.